TABLE OF CONTENTS Manager’s Corner..........................................4 Budget basics from the Board.......................5 Winter covenants tips ...................................6 Frost protection for plants .............................7 'Tis the season for pre-emergent...................8 Lifestyle feature events...............................10 November & December events................... 11 Fitness classes............................................12 Social groups and clubs...................... 12 &13 Holiday Bliss Boutique.................................14 HUSD united for our students.....................15
ON THE COVER
Last year, the addition of fireworks was the beginning of a new tradition in Power Ranch. This year on November 19, the annual Windmill Lighting event will light up the night in Power Ranch. Watch fireworks while nibbling on homemade cookies, listen to live music, and stroll through a luminaria-lit path, while enjoying an evening out with family and neighbors. The event is a great example how new experiences become traditions. Photo by KristenCarterPhotography.com
Power Ranch Community Association 4546 E. Haven Crest Drive Gilbert, AZ 85297 480.988.0960 | www.mypowerranch.com Carriage House (Association Office) Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Ranch House Clubhouse Phone 480.988.0938 Ranch House Clubhouse Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. After hours, please contact Ground Services: North of Germann - 480.229.4051 South of Germann - 480.216.9141 Anytime you see vandalism or suspicious activity, contact the Gilbert Police: 480.503.6500. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ PowerRanchCommunityAssociation Twitter: www.twitter.com/PowerRanch Instagram: www.instagram.com powerranchcommunityassociation/ Power Ranch ASPiRE: www.powerranchbusinesses.com
Power Ranch Living Magazine is the official community magazine of Power Ranch, produced by the Power Ranch Community Association. It is designed to keep residents informed about what’s happening in the community, from special events, clubs, and classes to school information, dining, entertainment, and more. Law prohibits reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photographs or illustrations without written permission from Power Ranch Community Association. Trademarks, logos, and content provided by advertisers, sponsors and partners are owned by their respective companies, and they reserve all rights. The views, statements, and claims of advertisers or other PRL contributors do not necessarily represent those of Power Ranch Community Association, CCMC or their employees.
For advertising information, contact: Stacey Schulze: 480.988.0960 or email: sschulze@ccmcnet.com. ©2017, Power Ranch Living Magazine. All rights reserved. Please recycle. Printed in the USA. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2017 | POWER RANCH LIVING MAGAZINE | 3
ASSOCIATION Manager's Corner
Power Ranch Community Association Board of Directors
By Andy Auteri, Community Manager
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s we transition to cooler weather, I always have enjoyed the holiday season with the change in outdoor colors along with the festive decorations. I recall memories growing up on the east coast, traveling each year to New York City to be a part of the Tree Lighting Celebrations. I can still remember my senses being stimulated with the sights and sounds of the season along with the aroma of chestnuts roasting on an open fire. I will admit, the taste of those chestnuts was a once in a lifetime experience.
Matt Dominy President
Gary Whelchel Vice President
Becky Cholewka Director
Hannah Boles Secretary
Randy Dix Director
James Piercy Treasurer
Robert Jamison Director
When my wife and I first moved to Arizona in 2008, the first winter season was a bit of a shock for us. I seem to remember the daytime temperatures were in the 80’s with no sign of even a cloud, let alone precipitation. Getting a little homesick, we took a trip to Tucson and spent time in and around Mt. Lemmon for the holiday. Much to our delight and surprise, it snowed during our visit. Immediately, my childhood memories came flooding back to me. I know we all have special memories that we can recall as we become more “experienced” in life. Having grandchildren in the Gilbert area, it is now a joy to be a part of their memories as well. I hope all of you can share your stories and create new stories for the next generation within your families. I hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season and you take advantage of the time we have to share and create memories with family and friends. Remember, get out, enjoy life, introduce yourself to your Power Ranch neighbors and create memories.
Andy
Power Ranch Community Association Staff
Andy Auteri Community Manager
Rebecca Benavidez Lifestyle Director
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Juliann Mowen Asst. Community Manager
Stacey Schulze Communications Coordinator
Denise Montana Covenants Coordinator
Max Villegas Lifestyle Assistant
Morgan Collins Lifestyle Coordinator
Dom Mansueto Maintenance Supervisor
What’s your favorite thing about winter? The close of budget season, of course! By James Piercy, Vice President, Power Ranch Board of Directors Treasurer
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inter is here in Power Ranch. Kids are back in school routines, the weather has cooled down, pool heaters are back on, and the Board and CCMC staff are finalizing next year’s budget. Developing the Association’s budget is no small task. We want to ensure that our assessments are put to best use, and we are maximizing investment potential. The budget covers three distinct areas; operating, capital funds, and reserves. Operating funds are those “regular” costs incurred throughout the year, which includes categories like landscaping, maintenance, and administrative costs such as salaries and insurance policies. Capital funds are those allotted for projects like the bocce courts and community-shared building renovations. Finally, reserves are “rainy day” funds. The Association’s auditor makes recommendations on appropriate ratios to be kept in reserves. Many individuals contribute to the development of the budget. Experts at CCMCC’s corporate offices, our community manager, the Budget and Finance Committee, the Treasurer, and the Board of Directors all play an integral role in the development, refinement, and approval of the Association’s budget. Residents can also review budgets and financials at any time and are encouraged to attend Board meetings or volunteer to serve on the Budget and Finance Committee. There are also many inputs to preparing the budget. Some of these include historical information, expert opinions, and vendor proposals. Historical information helps us understand how much we have spent on categories in the past and allows us to forecast spending for the upcoming year. Expert opinions guide us to better forecast spending and anticipate previously unforeseen changes to spending, while vendor proposals provide firm amounts for services or future projects. The strategic plan developed by the Board of Directors is a guiding document for the plan. Developing a solid budget is a science, and an art and we rely heavily on our experts at CCMC to provide us with the first draft in August.
The draft budget provided first to the Budget and Finance Committee who then review the budget and address questions or concerns during monthly meetings. The committee is made up of individuals of diverse backgrounds which allows for a broad range of feedback about the budget. Multiple meetings are typically devoted to budget development through autumn which results in numerous drafts of the budget. The Treasurer sits on the Budget and Finance Committee and reports back to the Board of Directors about the status of the budget throughout its development. The last step in budget development is to finalize and submit for approval to the Board of Directors. Final approval of the budget in December is typically more of a formality since the right stakeholders and experts were heavily involved in developing the budget. With the end of budget season, the Board of Directors sets its sights on upcoming elections, annual strategic planning, and working to ensure that we serve our residents effectively and deliver the highest level of community living.
James Piercy and his family take time to make memories at events in Power Ranch. The Camp Out and Polar Express are his family's favorite community events.
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COVENANTS
Keeping Power Ranch looking great this winter By Denise Montana, Community Standards
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s we begin to prepare for the colder months of the year, there are few things to remember to keep our beautifully decorated neighborhoods looking their best. When leaving home to visit friends and family for the holidays, please do not to leave trash and recycle containers in public view. You can ask a neighbor to move them in and out for you, or you can just wait until you are back in town to move your containers out for pickup. The holidays usually result in lots of empty boxes and crumpled wrapping paper. This year, Christmas day is a full week before bulk trash collection is scheduled. Please be sure to keep all of your bulk trash out of public view until Saturday, December 30. As the temperature drops so do the risk of frozen pipes. Towels, blankets, and other materials should not be used to wrap your pipes. Pipe wrap insulation that is either self-stick or tape wrapped may be used and should be painted or colored to match your house. It is extremely inexpensive and can be found at any home improvement store.
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‘Tis the Season! No matter what holiday you celebrate, the most wonderful time of the year means decorations! PRCA loves to see your creativity and encourages you to pull out all stops when doing your holiday decorating. While attaching lights to view fencing is not permitted during the year, you are welcome to light up your view fencing starting November 25. All holiday lights and decorations must be removed by January 9.
Preparing your yard for colder weather By Denise Montana, Community Standards
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s we prepare to jump into the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to lose track of even the most routine of tasks. Protecting our landscape from the threat of frost isn’t something that immediately comes to mind for most homeowners this time of year. We have prepared the following tips to help you get ready for the cooler weather. Frost Protection for your Plants Plants not native to the Southwest are most at risk for frost damage. These plants include Bougainvillea, Lantana, winter annuals and others. Watering plants the night before a frost can help them stay warmer since dehydrated plants are more susceptible to frost damage. Cover plants susceptible to frost-damage with light blankets or sheets. Avoid using heavy materials, such as burlap or heavy blankets. It is important to choose thin material that won't absorb moisture, which can cause excessive weight that can damage flowers or shrubs. Plastic is not recommended for plant cover. Drape the paper or cloth all the way to the ground to help trap heat radiating from the ground under the cover. A nursery can help you identify material made specifically for covering plants. Remove the cover
after sunrise each morning or when the temperature reaches 35 degrees. To Prune or Not to Prune If frost impacts your plant material, it is optimal to wait until the threat of frost has subsided to prune frost-damaged plants. Pruning away frost damage too early can result in additional damage to the plant if it is hit by frost again. New and unestablished shrubs or ground cover plants are more susceptible to permanent damage and could die due to cold weather. Established plants with a sustainable root system can handle minimal pruning for aesthetic reasons throughout frost season. When it comes to trees, some species like Ficus are particularly sensitive to frost damage. Many smaller trees may perish and, unless particularly protected, significant damage may occur to portions of the larger trees due to hard frosts. No matter what steps you follow to prepare for the cooler weather, it’s important to take proactive measures to prevent any loss of plant material, irrigation components and, ultimately, your money during the winter months.
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LANDSCAPE
Staying out of the weeds I By Anthony Marmino, Area Manager, Four Peaks Landscape Managment
f you have ever worked in a restaurant, you would have heard the phrase “in the weeds.� It is slang for becoming overwhelmed and falling behind. Weeds in landscaping can affect you in quite the same way when they are out of control. Weeds can becoming a difficult problem quickly and lower the appearance of the landscape. A proactive approach to managing weed growth is to stop them before they start. One of the best ways to accomplish this is with the use of pre-emergent herbicide. Unlike postemergent herbicides such as Roundup, pre-emergent targets the weed seed before it can germinate. Typical applications for granite landscape areas should be applied twice annually targeting the weed varieties which historically have been an issue in the coming
Keeping the weeds at bay with pre-emergent gives family more time to enjoy the neighborhood and relax. Meredith and Norah are feeding the ducks oats, one of the foods recommended to help keep the ducks healthy and the lakes clean. They also discovered the ducks love to eat cut up grapes and lettuce. Meghan Johnson photo credit.
season. The application should also be scheduled during the months when we would historically have the best opportunity to receive rain. Typically we plan applications for the granite landscape areas in January and February to target Spring and Summer weeds and July and August to target Fall and Winter weeds. Pre-emergent needs some amount of water to help leach the chemical into the soil where it will create a barrier acting to inhibit weed growth. It is important not to disturb the area where you have applied pre-emergent. The more soil disturbance in the area will potentially break the barrier that you are trying to create with the pre-emergent, and weeds will have a better chance of growing. Not all products are the same and doing a little homework prior will significantly help you to be more successful. When choosing a pre-emergent herbicide product, you need to determine what type of weeds 8 | POWER RANCH LIVING MAGAZINE | www.mypowerranch.com
you have had in the past and select a product that targets those. Product labels will explicitly list the plants that it covers, the rate of application, and expected effective time. Whenever working with herbicides, you should thoroughly read the label and follow all safety precautions. We have found that it takes two or three applications to begin to see good results by creating a consistent barrier and reduction of viable seed. Consistency is the key and will provide quality results in the long term. For homeowners who would prefer a natural alternative for weed control, you can use corn gluten meal which also inhibits germination of seeds. Corn gluten meal is a powdery byproduct of the corn milling process. This natural protein is beneficial for lawns and gardens as a plant food as well as a weed suppressor. Corn gluten meal products offer a non-toxic, yet effective alternative to traditional, chemical-based weed and feed products for weed control in gardens, lawns, paths, and driveways. With proper planning and appropriate timing, you can have a successful pre-emergent application and spend less time dealing with weeds.
LIFESTYLE
Power Ranch Traditions I By Rebecca Benavidez, Lifestyle Director
t’s always nice to have the right balance of tradition and new adventures. It feels like no matter what trials and triumphs we have had throughout the year it is always nice to settle down into our traditions. It reminds us to stay connected with loved ones, and no matter how far we have traveled on our life’s journey we can find our roots in our traditions. November 19 is the beginning of Power Ranch’s traditions. The Annual Windmill Lighting event honors the Power Ranch Community with the fresh baked cookies, hot cocoa, music and of course lighting of the windmill. Next is the Holiday Bliss Boutique on Saturday, December 2 at the Barn. PRCA is partnering with Centennial PTO and Power Ranch PTO to host a full day of holiday fun! There may be additional spaces for vendors who are interested in selling hand-crafted items.
Wrapping up the end of the event season is the Annual Polar Express! This annual event is the tradition with some twists. Saturday, December 9 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Watch for the email blasts and flyers to get all of the exciting information. Wishing you and your family a fantastic holiday season and look forward to seeing you all out there making those memories
Polar Express photos from last year's event. Cookie decorating and riding the Polar Express Train were just two of the activities. Be sure to attend this year to see the new additions, while enjoying the classic favorite snow sledding.
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Community Events
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ake a look at all the things going on in November and December. You are sure to find something fun to try. Remember all events require registration at www.mypowerranch.com on the Event Calendar, registration openings are announced in the weekly email blast. Events times, dates, and locations may change or cancel without notice. Check out the Event calendar for a complete list of all activities, clubs, and classes in the community. Rose Garden Tour Thursday, November 2 at 9 a.m., join residents at the MCC Rose Garden. The free tour is a follow-up for attendees of the Rose Society Presentation in October about the best practices of growing roses. New Resident Welcome Party Welcome to the neighborhood! Join us for a FREE dinner with all the fixins. Information about the community and a chance to win a few prizes. Location, date and time will be announced, registration required. CPR Class Thursday, November 9 at 10:30-12:30 p.m. in the Ranch House Flex space. Ages 16 and older $25 per person. Paint Night Friday, November 11, paint a wine glass centerpiece with Dalene Woodward. It includes everything from the wine glasses to the apron. BYOB and a snack to share. Register in advance at www.dalenewoodward.com. At the Ranch HouseFlex space 7-10 p.m., $39, ages 16 and older. Financial Planning 101 Thursday, November 16, join Josh Jones, financial planner and ASPiRE member for a seminar for anyone new to financial planning. Break finances down into five key considerations; save, spend, grow, protect and give. Attention Cookie Bakers The Annual Windmill Lighting event is Friday, November 18 and we need help providing homemade cookies to the hundreds of residents attending. Would you be willing to bake a batch of cookies to donate? Register online to help us keep track of the cookies. Help Light Up the Night Join us at the Barn, Friday, November 17 starting at 3 p.m. to make the luminaries for the Windmill Lighting. Help open paper bags, fill each one with sand, and add a battery operated tea light. We need to make about 500 luminaries. After we are finished, we are going to line the sidewalks with these beautiful glowing lights. The more hands, the better. Bring a wagon to help distribute the lights. Registration encouraged. Windmill Lighting Friday, November 17, the free event begins at 6:30 p.m. on the Barn event lawn. Join us as we light up the sky and eat homemade cookies and cocoa. The grand
Avoid the mall lines getting photos with Santa; he will be at the Polar Express event December 9 with photographer Kristen Carter. Registration is required.
finale of the event includes a live music performance. Strolling along the luminary-lit lakeside path and enjoy a musical concert starting at 7 p.m. The windmill lighting countdown begins at 7:15 p.m. Pizza and Paint November 18, paint a masterpiece with the assistance of Brushworks Studio. The fee covers all materials, pizza, and drinks. Ages 6 and older, parents and siblings welcome. $35 per person (look for the $10 discount for registering early), located at the Ranch House Clubhouse, from 3 to 6 p.m. register at www. brushworksartstudio.com. Holiday Bliss Boutique Saturday, December 2 at the Barn 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You won’t need to travel far to shop for something handmade, vintage, fragrant, or sparkly this holiday season. The Barn event lawn will be filled with more than 60 local artists, crafters, and vendors. Purchase raffle tickets for the chance to win prizes provided by the vendors. All proceeds go to Power Ranch and Centennial Elementary Schools. Annual Polar Express Saturday, December 9, at the Ranch House Soccer Fields $6 pre-sale wristbands – kids only! $6 Santa photos $ 2 trackless train tickets, $2 for five throwable snowballs (allowable only in the snowball area), $2 Laser Tag and more! Wristbands cover the snow play area, sledding hill, cookie decorating, a visit from celebrity characters, bounce houses, the Home Depot toy workshop plus crafts and activities for kids. The event also features hot cocoa and delicious treats available for purchase. 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit Centennial & Power Ranch Elementary Schools.
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ACTIVITIES Fitness Classes
Groups and Clubs
Bushido Hawaii Kenpo Karate Blind Dragon martial arts offered to Power Ranch residents by a Power Ranch resident. Classes for kids and adults held at the Barn on Monday and Thursday nights. Email Tom Hicks thomaslhicks@cox.net My Perfect Body Now Bootcamp Join Jennifer Shumway for boot camp fitness classes at the Barn Monday through Thursday, 9- 10 a.m. www. myperfectbodynow.com, 480-570-2800 Pound Join instructor Cassidi Bushaman for heart-pounding Pound fitness in the Barn on Thursday evenings at 7:45 p.m. The one hour class uses weighted drumsticks to help you sweat your way to a rock-hard body, $5 per person, and drop-in classes. Silver Sneakers Fitness Live a better quality of life with healthy bones, joints, and muscles by improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion with muscle, cardio, and yoga classes for ages 50 and up. Held in the Ranch House Fitness Room, Monday through Friday, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Contact Kristina Sherman 774-487-0394, or drop in. Yoga in the Barn All levels! Yoga uses breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures. It is a widely practiced for health and relaxation. Classes on Tuesdays, 6:30- 7:30 p.m. at the Barn, $5 drop-in or five classes for $20. Hester 480-239-7832, yogawithhester@gmail.com
Aspire Business Group Meeting: November 14 at 8:30 a.m., location to be announced and December 12, 6:30 p.m. at the Ranch House Flex Space. Are you a Power Ranch Business? A Power Ranch resident who owns their own business or live within a 5-mile radius? Join us and network with local business owners. The group meets once a month. The first meeting is FREE. Membership is required. Bocce Ball Drop-in and play with this fun group that meets Wednesday afternoons at 1 p.m., conversation and drinks afterward. First timers to experts are welcomed to join, the more, the merrier. Bunco Babes The second Wednesday of each month from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. Join the ladies at the Carriage House to play bunco and share a meal. Contact sonnarae@msn.com for questions Card Players Join the Power Players in the Carriage House and play cards, dominoes, and now bridge! Tuesday, 1 - 4 p.m. and Thursday 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the Ranch House flex space. Games vary. We are happy to teach you to play something new. No commitment required. Bring a friend or come and meet someone new. Cancer Survivors Support Group Meetings take place on the third Tuesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. at the Carriage House. Are you a cancer survivor looking for emotional support, health and wellness tips, wanting to be around those who know how you feel then this supportive and uplifting guided group is for you! Every week we will cover something new to help move through this cancer survivor journey. It doesn't matter where you are on your journey; newly diagnosed, going through treatment, one-year, or twenty-year survivor, it's about feeling supported wherever you are! Email Kelly info@ healthywithkelly.com Craft Night The first Thursday of the month at the Ranch House Clubhouse, join friends and neighbors to work on your crafting project. Bring a snack to share. Open to residents and friends 18 and older. Girl Scouts Girl Scouting builds courage, confidence, and character from community service projects, to summer camp, travel opportunities, and career exploration. Girl Scouts participate in enriching, skill-building activities that give them the tools to become who they want to be. $15 a year, ages 5 to 9. MOMS Club Our purpose is to offer support for mothers who are home during the day. We promote an atmosphere for moms and kids to build lifelong friendships. We do this through playgroups, children's activities, book clubs, coffee chat, recipe club, park days and Mom's Night Out. To get involved: momsclubgpr@gmail.com. Pickleball Bring a partner or stop in to find one for drop-in, Doubles Pickleball. Informal meet-ups scheduled every Monday at
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ax Villegas is the new Lifestyle Assistant. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Max moved to Arizona in 2006 and graduated from Maricopa High School in 2010. He played soccer throughout high school and played at Olivet Nazarene University. Max coached club soccer for eight years. He volunteers with the elementary and high school kids at his church. Recently engaged and excited for this next chapter of life at Power Ranch.
organ Collins is the new Lifestyle Coordinator You might recognize Morgan from one of the many activities and events she attended this summer as a seasonal employee. Morgan loved the community, so when the opportunity to join the team opened up, she was over-joyed to stay. Many of the younger Power Ranch residents already know her by name when they visit the Ranch House Clubhouse. If you haven't met Morgan yet, say hi next time you see her at the Clubhouse or an event.
10:30 a.m. at the Arbors Tennis complex. Join in the fun. The game is easy to play and quick to learn. Bring your supplies and let's play! Homeschooling Connections There are many fun things to do for all ages. The group meets once a week. Contact: Eva Weeks - 480-686-9519, weweeks@hotmail.com. Homeschooling teens, contact Jennifer Guzman: jennguzmanaz@gmail.com. Ladies Bunco This quick-paced, simple, silly dice game is the perfect way to spend a night out with the girls. Don't know how to play? You can learn in minutes. The game starts at 7 p.m. in the Carriage House. BYOB, $5 to play, space for 36, and fills quickly, RSVP to reserve your spot: prbunco@gmail.com Power Ranch Cycling Group Interested in joining a Power Ranch cycling club that takes off from the Barn or the Ranch House on Saturday mornings? Looking for beginning/intermediate cyclists interested in riding 25 to 30 miles at about a 15 MPH pace. Share with all your other cycling friends looking for something in our area. Contact: piercy.james@gmail.com. Power Ranch Home Brewers Club Not just a club for home brewers; it’s a club for beer lovers. While we do center on home brewing, we are a community of people that just love to make, drink, talk, and learn more about beer. We are a brand-new club, and looking to grow and develop into an active, thriving beer community right here in Power Ranch. So, if you love beer, home brewing, or want to learn more about it, please, feel free to see it. We meet in the Clubhouse the second Thursday of every month, at 6:30 p.m. At our meetings, you can expect presentations, guest speakers, talks, tastings, exchanging of ideas, recipes, good conversation and more. Contact Ken Morrison 480-227-5943 Social Club Are you 55+, retired, or in a similar stage of life? Enjoy
meeting other people by participating in outings, events, meals, and more. Send your name, phone, and email address to rbenavidez@ccmcnet.com to be included in the event emails and monthly newsletter. Ideas and volunteers always welcome! VFW Meetings Third Thursday of the Month at the Ranch House Clubhouse, email Michael at GilbertVFW@yahoo.com, for more information. Volleyball Every Tuesday, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Stop by the Ranch House volleyball court and find other volleyball-lovers willing to start up a game. This court does have a misting system. Check in the office for more information about how to turn it on and off. Weight Watchers Learn from a weight-loss mentor, get inspiration and power from others embarking on the same journey; develop personal strategies; and get tips and great advice. Meetings in the Carriage House on Mondays, weigh-in at 6 p.m., meeting at 6:30 p.m., new member orientation at 7:30 p.m., all ages welcome. www.weightwatchers.com. Women’s Club Ladies 18 and older come to the first Wednesday of each month at the Carriage House. There are no dues or fees. The group plans activities and field trips around the valley, a social club, not a service club. For more info: sruffalo1393@q.com. Woodworking Club Held the first Wednesday of the Month, 7 p.m. at the Ranch House Clubhouse, woodworkers of all ages and experience levels are invited to join the group. Mark Witt, Power Ranch resident has been creating sawdust since 1975. Come and share ideas, projects, plans, and resources, encouraging everyone who wants to get involved in the craft.
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NEIGHBORHOOD
Shop til you drop at the Holiday Bliss Boutique By Sally Chase, Centennial PTO President, and Michelle Pederson, Power Ranch PTO President
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o you love to shop? Do you love to support local small businesses? If so, you do not want to miss the 2nd Annual Holiday Bliss Boutique at the Barn, December 2, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The FREE event will have more than 75 vendors featuring handcrafted items that will be perfect for your holiday shopping needs. We have expanded the available vendor spaces to make this event even bigger. Items ranging from handmade jewelry, quilts, signs, holiday décor, etc. are sure to help you find the perfect gifts for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list. While browsing these fantastic vendors, make a stop at our participating food trucks to refuel for even more shopping. Morning Kick Casserole food truck, owned and run by Power Ranch residents, will be there. They offer delicious cold brew coffee ready for you to customize with a wide variety of syrups including yummy seasonal flavors. Their casseroles will leave wanting to come back for more! Coffee Run will be on site serving up hot beverages perfect for getting you into the holiday spirit. New Flame Cafe food truck will arrive just in time for lunch. Recharge with mouthwatering food before moving on to another round of shopping.
With sixty vendors at last year's Holiday Bliss Boutique, the raffle table was very busy. Each vendor donates an item to the raffle, and 100% of the raffle money will go to the PTOs. This year, there is no entry fee, and more vendors will be at the event. Buy those raffle tickets to support the schools, and you could win some fantastic prizes. 14 | POWER RANCH LIVING MAGAZINE | www.mypowerranch.com
Proceeds from this event from vendor fees, raffle ticket sales, and a percentage of food truck sales will stay within the community, benefiting the nonprofit parent-teacher organizations (PTO) for both Power Ranch community schools. Power Ranch Elementary PTO will utilize these funds to continue to support teacher and grade level requests for classroom supplies, supplementary curriculum, and campus needs. Centennial Elementary PTO will use these funds towards curriculum enrichment, teacher support, and campus needs. The PTO groups for both schools focus on supporting school staff, providing for their students, as well as building and maintaining community relationships. Each school will have volunteers on hand throughout the event greeting shoppers, handing out maps, answering your questions, and selling raffle tickets. Be sure to stop by and say “hi” and pick up a raffle ticket or five for a chance to win prizes from our outstanding vendors. Each vendor will provide a raffle item, and you won’t want to miss your chance to win a fantastic prize. We hope to see you there!
United for our Students By Dr. Mike Thomason, Superintendent HUSD
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ublic school education is at the center of any community. Seven of Higley Unified School District’s 13 campuses directly serve students of Power Ranch. Power Ranch, Centennial, and Coronado Elementary school boundaries lie within the Power Ranch community. Students from those schools move on to attend Cooley and Sossaman Middle School. Centennial, Power Ranch, Cooley and Sossaman were among the top Arizona schools when ratings last came out in 2014. Coronado is home to the district’s Mandarin Dual Language program. Students from Power Ranch also attend Williams Field and Higley High, which both were recognized by U.S. News and World Report as top high schools in the country. Higley provides boutique educational opportunities to allow families to in any of our 13 campuses that may best fit their child’s needs. Higley Unified School District works closely with the Power Ranch Community Association many projects ranging from neighborhood gatherings, field use, to student activities, and sports clubs. Guiding us in this endeavor is a common goal to constantly improve the lives of those within the community, from the youngest to the young-atheart. We are so grateful for the partnership we have with our local community associations, especially Power Ranch. They believe in the strength of the neighborhood school and certainly put an effort toward helping that continue. Power Ranch provides event opportunities to fundraise for the schools, as well as spotlight student performances at events. The association also keeps students in mind when planning activities, such as early release craft days. Higley school officials keep communications open to the Association. School leaders regularly meet with Association staff, as well as work on special projects. Power Ranch Board Members attend district business partner breakfasts, and the HUSD principals join in the quarterly PRCA Pow Wow. I wish to thank the Power Ranch Community Association for taking our schools “under your wing” with love, support, and care.
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